Event: Phase 2, Group Visitation
Date: 7th April
Reporting time: 0930
Venue: MPFSC
Approx. end time: 1630
For attire, please wear the Vietnam Fusionoize polo-tee. There MIGHT be a meeting after the event, please be prepared for the meeting to stretch into dinner time.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Entry For Physical Recreation--Keeping Fit For March
Keeping Fit for March
Participants: Thomas
Dates: 02/03, 06/03, 09/03, 13/03, 16/03, 20/03, 23/03, 27/03
No. of hours completed: 16 hrs (Total: 46hrs)
Overview:
- Introduction of machines
- Doing a final test on my fitness
- Completing my schedule for 3 months
The “Benchpress”, “ Cycling Machine”, and LegCurls” were some of the machines that are used to train the muscles of the lower limbs. Others would be used to train either our stamina or the arm muscles. An example would be the “Cable Crossover”. One would have to first place the master leg in front to maintain his balance. Next, by keeping his elbows locked to the side, he would pull a handle which is connected to adjustable weights downwards. It would be done in 4 sets of 12,13,14 and back to 12 times. This is one of the ways of utilizing the “Cable Crossover”. The other way would be to first take several steps backwards, with the handle being pulled along. Next, lower the body to half-squat position. Next, keeping the elbows locked and straight, pull the handle towards yourself.It would also be done in 4 sets of 12,13,14 and back to 12 times. Dumbbells of around 6kg(3kg on each side) would be used to train both biceps and triceps. Lastly, the “Rowing Machine” would be another machine that trains the arm muscles. One would pull a handle towards himself and due to the mobility of the seat, would be able to move back and forth, thus resembling that of a rowing action. After 3 months of keeping fit, I decided to do a final test on my level of fitness. Throughout these 3 months, my pull-ups had increased from 8 to 12, sit-ups had increased from 42 to 50 in 30 secs, standing broadjump improved from 225 to 237cm and finally my 2.4km run improved from 11.00mins to 10.35mins. Thus , from this results, I have become even more determined in maintaining my fitness level. I will strive to keep up with this current schedule and believe that I will be able to attain even greater levels of fitness in future.
Participants: Thomas
Dates: 02/03, 06/03, 09/03, 13/03, 16/03, 20/03, 23/03, 27/03
No. of hours completed: 16 hrs (Total: 46hrs)
Overview:
- Introduction of machines
- Doing a final test on my fitness
- Completing my schedule for 3 months
The “Benchpress”, “ Cycling Machine”, and LegCurls” were some of the machines that are used to train the muscles of the lower limbs. Others would be used to train either our stamina or the arm muscles. An example would be the “Cable Crossover”. One would have to first place the master leg in front to maintain his balance. Next, by keeping his elbows locked to the side, he would pull a handle which is connected to adjustable weights downwards. It would be done in 4 sets of 12,13,14 and back to 12 times. This is one of the ways of utilizing the “Cable Crossover”. The other way would be to first take several steps backwards, with the handle being pulled along. Next, lower the body to half-squat position. Next, keeping the elbows locked and straight, pull the handle towards yourself.It would also be done in 4 sets of 12,13,14 and back to 12 times. Dumbbells of around 6kg(3kg on each side) would be used to train both biceps and triceps. Lastly, the “Rowing Machine” would be another machine that trains the arm muscles. One would pull a handle towards himself and due to the mobility of the seat, would be able to move back and forth, thus resembling that of a rowing action. After 3 months of keeping fit, I decided to do a final test on my level of fitness. Throughout these 3 months, my pull-ups had increased from 8 to 12, sit-ups had increased from 42 to 50 in 30 secs, standing broadjump improved from 225 to 237cm and finally my 2.4km run improved from 11.00mins to 10.35mins. Thus , from this results, I have become even more determined in maintaining my fitness level. I will strive to keep up with this current schedule and believe that I will be able to attain even greater levels of fitness in future.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Notice for meeting - 29/3/07
Date: 29/3/07 Thursday (TP ppl released at 1730 on tues)
Time : 1600 (time is CONFIRMED)
Venue: Victoria School
Agenda
Physical Recreation Updates
Skills Update
Service section (group visitation phase 2)
Feburary Submissions
Changes in Role
Time : 1600 (time is CONFIRMED)
Venue: Victoria School
Agenda
Physical Recreation Updates
Skills Update
Service section (group visitation phase 2)
Feburary Submissions
Changes in Role
Sunday, March 18, 2007
NYAA - Physical Recreation - Entry 7 - Kayaking Expedition VII
Entry for Physical RecreationKayak Expedition VII
Participants:
-Edmund
-Jia Wei
-Seth
-Zhan Liang
-Calvin HanOverview:- Kayak from PRSSC- Used single Bandit kayaks- Kayaked to Changi
- Passed the busy sea channel that caters to ships traveling to and fro
the - Return journey back to PRSSC- Completed 10.6km of mileage in 7 hours, from 1000 to 1700 hrs
Date: 18/3/2007
Hours Completed: 7 hours, 1000 to 1700 hrs
Today, we went back to Pasir Ris Sea Sports Club (PRSSC) which we had frequented over the past few weeks. However, this time round we were to chart a different journey, one away from Coney Island and in the direction of the Changi Sea Sports Club (CSSC). This journey would prove to be longer and of a harder challenge to us than the usual trip down to Coney Island. The total mileage covered would be 10.6km as opposed to the 8.5km we had been accustomed to.
Upon reaching the PRSSC, we registered ourselves and soon got the necessary equipment needed for the expedition to CSSC. As this expedition was longer and involved crossing a busier portion of the sea channel, PRSSC had required one in our group to bring along a mobile phone as a means of emergency contact. By the time we had made the necessary arrangements-checking of tide table and ensuring every one had brought along water bottles for hydration throughout the expedition- and gotten our kayaks, it was 1035. We started familiarizing ourselves with the kayak, a routine which lasted 15minutes as we had used this kayak the week before and did not need much time.
By 1050, we had begun kayaking toward CSSC, careful to watch for any ships or boats in the sea channels. We used the buoys as markers to keep our sense of direction while crossing the channel. During this time we encountered 2 large container ships on our paths and had to proceed with extraordinary caution. In addition to these huge ships were the smaller yet faster boats that we had to watch out for, making careful judgements of whether to move or halt.
Stopping then paddling with all our might were common repetitions throughout when crossing the channel. While crossing the channel, we saw a few coastal structures that marked our expedition, the first being a shipyard of kind with “JACK BATES” written on its façade. We had passed this shipyard at 11.40 p.m. Kayaking further down to where sailing boats were anchored, we spotted the “Changi Beach Club” along the coast which we were paddling along. We kayaked past the area with anchored sailboats and chalets. As we approached the CSSC, we passed one final landmark which was the mouth of a small lagoon from which bumpboats making their way to Pulau Ubin would exit. This portion was crossed with much care before we reached the strip of beach where we were to disembark for lunch.
By the time we had beached up, it was 1240p.m. We went for an hour’s lunch break at the Changi hawker centre. By 1340, we had finished lunch and had done some light skills revision to past time while letting lunch digests before starting the intensive kayak journey back to PRSSC. We had managed to practise the 2 star kayaking skills learnt last year. This session lasted around 1410.
The journey back started at around 1420 after we packed up all the things we had brought with us. The journey back was basically very much the same as the journey to Changi. The time we took to return was slightly longer as we were kayaking against the tide. We reached PRSSC at 1615. We then decided to practise our kayaking skills and capsize drills during that time in the demarcated area till around 1640. This was to ensure we would not lose touch of the vital skills and drills. We packed up and left PRSSC at around 1730, hence concluding our kayaking session.
Participants:
-Edmund
-Jia Wei
-Seth
-Zhan Liang
-Calvin HanOverview:- Kayak from PRSSC- Used single Bandit kayaks- Kayaked to Changi
- Passed the busy sea channel that caters to ships traveling to and fro
the - Return journey back to PRSSC- Completed 10.6km of mileage in 7 hours, from 1000 to 1700 hrs
Date: 18/3/2007
Hours Completed: 7 hours, 1000 to 1700 hrs
Today, we went back to Pasir Ris Sea Sports Club (PRSSC) which we had frequented over the past few weeks. However, this time round we were to chart a different journey, one away from Coney Island and in the direction of the Changi Sea Sports Club (CSSC). This journey would prove to be longer and of a harder challenge to us than the usual trip down to Coney Island. The total mileage covered would be 10.6km as opposed to the 8.5km we had been accustomed to.
Upon reaching the PRSSC, we registered ourselves and soon got the necessary equipment needed for the expedition to CSSC. As this expedition was longer and involved crossing a busier portion of the sea channel, PRSSC had required one in our group to bring along a mobile phone as a means of emergency contact. By the time we had made the necessary arrangements-checking of tide table and ensuring every one had brought along water bottles for hydration throughout the expedition- and gotten our kayaks, it was 1035. We started familiarizing ourselves with the kayak, a routine which lasted 15minutes as we had used this kayak the week before and did not need much time.
By 1050, we had begun kayaking toward CSSC, careful to watch for any ships or boats in the sea channels. We used the buoys as markers to keep our sense of direction while crossing the channel. During this time we encountered 2 large container ships on our paths and had to proceed with extraordinary caution. In addition to these huge ships were the smaller yet faster boats that we had to watch out for, making careful judgements of whether to move or halt.
Stopping then paddling with all our might were common repetitions throughout when crossing the channel. While crossing the channel, we saw a few coastal structures that marked our expedition, the first being a shipyard of kind with “JACK BATES” written on its façade. We had passed this shipyard at 11.40 p.m. Kayaking further down to where sailing boats were anchored, we spotted the “Changi Beach Club” along the coast which we were paddling along. We kayaked past the area with anchored sailboats and chalets. As we approached the CSSC, we passed one final landmark which was the mouth of a small lagoon from which bumpboats making their way to Pulau Ubin would exit. This portion was crossed with much care before we reached the strip of beach where we were to disembark for lunch.
By the time we had beached up, it was 1240p.m. We went for an hour’s lunch break at the Changi hawker centre. By 1340, we had finished lunch and had done some light skills revision to past time while letting lunch digests before starting the intensive kayak journey back to PRSSC. We had managed to practise the 2 star kayaking skills learnt last year. This session lasted around 1410.
The journey back started at around 1420 after we packed up all the things we had brought with us. The journey back was basically very much the same as the journey to Changi. The time we took to return was slightly longer as we were kayaking against the tide. We reached PRSSC at 1615. We then decided to practise our kayaking skills and capsize drills during that time in the demarcated area till around 1640. This was to ensure we would not lose touch of the vital skills and drills. We packed up and left PRSSC at around 1730, hence concluding our kayaking session.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
NYAA Entry-Skills-Overview for year 2006, September to October
Overview
- Last 3 topics of the theory exam
- General Practices and Specimen Papers
- The taking of the Grade 5 Theory of Music Exam
Venue: Tampines (Piano Teacher's House)(every thursday)
Dates(in year 2006): 7/9, 14/9, 21/9/, 28/9, 5/10, 12/10, 19/10, 26/10
Hours completed: 8hrs in total
In September, I was in the midst of my preparations for the Grade 5 Piano Theory exam and the preparations included finishing various specimen papers and practices that allowed me to continually brush up on the theoretical aspect of piano.
From the 7th of September 2006, I had begun on the last few topics required for the Grade 5 theory exam, namely: Instruments of the orchestra, Reiterations and repeats, and last of all Performance directions which entailed memorizing a considerable amount of Italian, German and French musical terms which were often utilized in music scores to create certain styles or effects e.g. piangevole(Italian) which means to play in a plaintive manner, hence setting the atmosphere/effect.
The first few lessons in September focused on completing the 3 last topics remaining on the agenda before taking the exam. I was taught about the common music orchestra and the instrumental families that made up this orchestra, which were string, woodwind, and brass family instruments. I was required to memorize the basic information about these instruments; things like the clef it was played in, the range, and whether the instruments required transposing as some tended to sound lower or higher than what was written on the music score e.g. the double-bass of the string family would sound an octave lower than what was written on the music score for it. I completed various exam practices for it, familiarizing myself with the common questions that had recurred over the years.
In the next topic, Reiterations and repeats, I learnt about the various ways in which repetition of rest(s) or phrases of notes could be represented. I had learnt to write and interpret the representation of reiterated rests, some of which could stretch over a varying number of bars. On top of this, the same was taught of reiterated notes, for example the writing and interpretation for tremolos, which were 2 consecutively reiterated notes over a certain value. I was also taught how to represent repeated notes (phrases or bars of notes) and subsequently how to interpret these representations, which is the usage of certain symbols to represent repetition.
Performance direction was the last topic I had learnt. As I progressed through this topic, I had to constantly revise mentally the meanings of the musical terms that presented themselves in Italian, French and German to prevent myself from forgetting them. It included memorizing phrases of these terms in context with the musical score as I had only been able to understand individual words and could not as yet comprehend phrases though some their meanings could be deduced.
After finishing off these topics by late September, I begun working on general exercises and specimen papers all the way into October. I had managed to complete the general exercises in the Grade 5 music theory book and Specimen Papers from the years 2003, 2004 and 2005. From these practices, I had managed to form a rough gauge on the difficulty of the exam as well as the common styles of questioning that the exam took to in testing students on their music knowledge. The exam took place on the 4th of November, the first Saturday of the month. I have gotten back my results and had managed to achieve a distinction score in the Grade 5 Theory of Music exam.
Service Section: Marine Parade Family Service Centre(MPFSC)
Entry for Training cum Interaction session with other volunteers
Today was the official initiation of the MPFSC project and it started off with a training session held by the centre for all its volunteers. There was a great disparity of age between our group and the other group of volunteers that had attended the training session and we were initially worried. But after the conclusion of the session we realized that this worry was much unfounded and that the session with them had in fact been a very enriching experience.
This training session’s main aim was to impart skills/techniques of communication to its volunteers. The training at the centre began at 915a.m with mutual introductions being made among the volunteers followed by a talk carried out by regular volunteer Edmund, a pastor at a church. The talk prepared us for what was expected of us and what we could expect to learn from this training session.
After this talk we played a few games to build rapport among us volunteers and to familiarize ourselves with one another. A self-evaluation session then ensued. We carried out a self-evaluation on our individual styles of communication and expression to see where each person’s weaknesses lay and to work on it; while at the same time appreciating each other’s strong points, learning from one other. After the evaluation, we were taught the different roles each style of communication could play in our interaction with the elderly and how each style could supplement the other. This helped us see how to cooperate with and value our fellow volunteers. Lunch followed at 11.20a.m to 12p.m.
During lunch, we discussed the future plans of our project in relation to MPFSC with Edmund. He agreed to be a sort of mentor to us in the course of our project. The tentative arrangement was to have the first visitation session by the 1st week of April and from that time forth we would establish relationships with the elderly were to be attached to,conducting personal visitation sessions with the elderly at our own time.
After lunch we attended another talk by full-time staff Ms. Han Yah Yee on the difficulties one would encounter while doing social work among the elderly. An activity followed after the talk, during which we were split into groups to discuss the various difficulties each had faced while doing social work. As we were greenhorns in this line, we had absorbed and learned much during this session where the very much experienced volunteers shared their own encounters. Some faced unsympathetic wards while others faced unreasonably unruly elderly in their work.
During this session we also had to brainstorm for ideas to deal with these difficulties faced. This was especially useful for the 8 of us as we were then equipped with the necessary preparations in dealing with elderly that could prove difficult. A particular volunteer Mary, with 29years of volunteer-work experience commented using a mandarin quotation, that in getting the cooperation with the elderly, it was always necessary to “persuade the heart of the person than assert the issue without winning the person”. It was lessons like these from the experience of the older volunteers which aided us in our preparation for volunteer work among the elderly.
As a conclusion to the training cum interaction session, Ms Han spoke to us volunteers on the spirit of volunteer work. Something we took away was that we could not expect any recognition from anyone about what we did, but could definitely expect to derive a sense of satisfaction from our work; a satisfaction something wealth could never obtain. The training ended at 5p.m with high tea at parkway.
Date:16th March 2007
Time: 9.00a.m-5.00p.m
Venue: MPFSC
Today was the official initiation of the MPFSC project and it started off with a training session held by the centre for all its volunteers. There was a great disparity of age between our group and the other group of volunteers that had attended the training session and we were initially worried. But after the conclusion of the session we realized that this worry was much unfounded and that the session with them had in fact been a very enriching experience.
This training session’s main aim was to impart skills/techniques of communication to its volunteers. The training at the centre began at 915a.m with mutual introductions being made among the volunteers followed by a talk carried out by regular volunteer Edmund, a pastor at a church. The talk prepared us for what was expected of us and what we could expect to learn from this training session.
After this talk we played a few games to build rapport among us volunteers and to familiarize ourselves with one another. A self-evaluation session then ensued. We carried out a self-evaluation on our individual styles of communication and expression to see where each person’s weaknesses lay and to work on it; while at the same time appreciating each other’s strong points, learning from one other. After the evaluation, we were taught the different roles each style of communication could play in our interaction with the elderly and how each style could supplement the other. This helped us see how to cooperate with and value our fellow volunteers. Lunch followed at 11.20a.m to 12p.m.
During lunch, we discussed the future plans of our project in relation to MPFSC with Edmund. He agreed to be a sort of mentor to us in the course of our project. The tentative arrangement was to have the first visitation session by the 1st week of April and from that time forth we would establish relationships with the elderly were to be attached to,conducting personal visitation sessions with the elderly at our own time.
After lunch we attended another talk by full-time staff Ms. Han Yah Yee on the difficulties one would encounter while doing social work among the elderly. An activity followed after the talk, during which we were split into groups to discuss the various difficulties each had faced while doing social work. As we were greenhorns in this line, we had absorbed and learned much during this session where the very much experienced volunteers shared their own encounters. Some faced unsympathetic wards while others faced unreasonably unruly elderly in their work.
During this session we also had to brainstorm for ideas to deal with these difficulties faced. This was especially useful for the 8 of us as we were then equipped with the necessary preparations in dealing with elderly that could prove difficult. A particular volunteer Mary, with 29years of volunteer-work experience commented using a mandarin quotation, that in getting the cooperation with the elderly, it was always necessary to “persuade the heart of the person than assert the issue without winning the person”. It was lessons like these from the experience of the older volunteers which aided us in our preparation for volunteer work among the elderly.
As a conclusion to the training cum interaction session, Ms Han spoke to us volunteers on the spirit of volunteer work. Something we took away was that we could not expect any recognition from anyone about what we did, but could definitely expect to derive a sense of satisfaction from our work; a satisfaction something wealth could never obtain. The training ended at 5p.m with high tea at parkway.
Friday, March 16, 2007
NYAA Entry - Skills - Overview for March - Guitar
Participants: Boon Kiat, Calvin, Edmund, Jiawei, Joseph
Venue: Edvox Music School, Marine Parade Central
Teacher: Mr Chris Ho
Details: Guitar Group Beginner, once every week (Thursday), 45min (2015-2100)
1st March 2007
- Chris helped to tune our guitars manually
- Brief introduction of parts of guitar
- Went through the correct posture for guitar playing
- Basic plucking and fingering (plucking patterns)
- Introduction to chords (C and G7)
- Combination of chords and plucking
8th March 2007
- Taught us how to tune with a tuner
- Playing notes with the guitar by pressing the correct string and fret (low C, D, E, F ... highest C)
- Basic reading of notes on a score sheet (FACE for spaces and EveryGoodBoyDoesFine for lines)
- Introduction to more chords (Am and Dm)
- Chord progression with plucking (C to Am to Dm to G7 to C)
15th March 2007
- Self-tuning with a tuner
- Revision of chord progression and playing of notes
- Filling in of notes for score sheets of 3 songs (Sur Le Pont D'avignon, Di Tanjong Katong, Ode to Joy)
- Practising the playing of the 3 songs followed by individual assessment
- Further practice and individual assessment of chord progression and playing of notes
- Introduction to note values (Semibreve 1, Minim 1/2, Crotchet 1/4, Quaver 1/8, Semiquaver 1/16)
22nd March 2007
- New song: 500 Miles
- Introduction to G Major (all F notes must play as F# or F sharp)
- Playing sharps and flats of notes (moving 1 fret left or right)
- Exercises on G Major: 3 songs
P.S.
- edvox music school closed on 29th, hence no lesson.
- guitar lessons changed to friday after 29th, and there was no lesson too on 6 april (good friday)
- next lesson will be 13 april
- will be posted by boon kiat
Venue: Edvox Music School, Marine Parade Central
Teacher: Mr Chris Ho
Details: Guitar Group Beginner, once every week (Thursday), 45min (2015-2100)
1st March 2007
- Chris helped to tune our guitars manually
- Brief introduction of parts of guitar
- Went through the correct posture for guitar playing
- Basic plucking and fingering (plucking patterns)
- Introduction to chords (C and G7)
- Combination of chords and plucking
8th March 2007
- Taught us how to tune with a tuner
- Playing notes with the guitar by pressing the correct string and fret (low C, D, E, F ... highest C)
- Basic reading of notes on a score sheet (FACE for spaces and EveryGoodBoyDoesFine for lines)
- Introduction to more chords (Am and Dm)
- Chord progression with plucking (C to Am to Dm to G7 to C)
15th March 2007
- Self-tuning with a tuner
- Revision of chord progression and playing of notes
- Filling in of notes for score sheets of 3 songs (Sur Le Pont D'avignon, Di Tanjong Katong, Ode to Joy)
- Practising the playing of the 3 songs followed by individual assessment
- Further practice and individual assessment of chord progression and playing of notes
- Introduction to note values (Semibreve 1, Minim 1/2, Crotchet 1/4, Quaver 1/8, Semiquaver 1/16)
22nd March 2007
- New song: 500 Miles
- Introduction to G Major (all F notes must play as F# or F sharp)
- Playing sharps and flats of notes (moving 1 fret left or right)
- Exercises on G Major: 3 songs
P.S.
- edvox music school closed on 29th, hence no lesson.
- guitar lessons changed to friday after 29th, and there was no lesson too on 6 april (good friday)
- next lesson will be 13 april
- will be posted by boon kiat
Thursday, March 15, 2007
Service Section : MPFSC
Event: Initial training cum interaction session with Marine Parade Family Service Centre (MPFSC)
Date: 16th March
Reporting time: 9.00a.m
Venue: MPFSC
Date: 16th March
Reporting time: 9.00a.m
Venue: MPFSC
Approx. end time: 4.30p.m
For attire, please wear the Vietnam Fusionoize polo-tee. There will be a meeting after the event, please be prepared for the meeting to stretch into dinner time.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Physical Recreation Section : Canoeing
Kayaking Expedition @ PRSSC
Date: 18/3/07
Time: 0915 @ Pasir Ris MRT
Venue: PRSSC
People: JW, Ed,Seth. Others like ZL and Cal can come too, Justin is also welcome.
Expedition: PRSSC to CSSC Seafront of around 10.6 km (total) from 1000-1700
Pls bring along your membership and loyalty cards, a big water bottle (1.5L), and $20 for rental fees. Note: Do not bring your own lunch, bring money instead for lunch at Changi.
Date: 18/3/07
Time: 0915 @ Pasir Ris MRT
Venue: PRSSC
People: JW, Ed,Seth. Others like ZL and Cal can come too, Justin is also welcome.
Expedition: PRSSC to CSSC Seafront of around 10.6 km (total) from 1000-1700
Pls bring along your membership and loyalty cards, a big water bottle (1.5L), and $20 for rental fees. Note: Do not bring your own lunch, bring money instead for lunch at Changi.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
NYAA - Physical Recreation - Entry 6 - Kayaking Expedition VI
Entry for Physical Recreation
Kayak Expedition VI
Participants:
-Edmund
-Jia Wei
-Seth
Overview:
- Kayak from PRSSC
- Used single Bandit kayaks
- Went on round-Coney Island journey
- Passed the northern, western and southern tip of Coney Island
- Return journey back to PRSSC
- Completed 8.5km of mileage in 7 hours, from 1000 to 1700 hrs
Date: 11/3/2007
Hours Completed: 7 hours, from 1000 to 1700 hrs
We went back to the familiar Pasir Ris Sea Sports Club for our kayaking expedition once again. This time, after checking the tide-tables to plan a suitable route for our expedition, we decided to go on the same to and round-Coney Island journey and back but challenge ourselves to complete the journey in a shorter time and as compared to the last round-Coney Island expedition we went on. Also, two of us, Edmund and Seth have not gone on any round-Coney Island expedition before from PRSSC, thus this expedition will be something different and unfamiliar especially for us, enabling us to gain new experience.
After meeting at Pasir Ris MRT Station at 0930, we walked a short distance to a nearby bus stop and took a bus from there to PRSSC. We planned to rent 3 single Dancer kayaks but were told that there were no more Dancer kayaks available. There were then only Turbo and Bandit (almost the same as Turbo but bigger) kayaks available, which were harder to control (turns easily, difficult to travel straight) due to a rounder hull as compared to Dancer kayaks, and we were also not used to using them as we have always been using Dancer kayaks for all our kayaking courses and expeditions. We discussed for a moment and decided to go with renting Bandit kayaks, as a challenge for ourselves and also familiarize ourselves to the different kayaks. We prepared ourselves for the expedition ahead by packing the lunch that we bought, taking our buoyancy vests, spray-covers, paddles and adjusting our footrests from 1000 to 1030. As soon as we were ready, we got into our kayaks and launched out, paddling around the demarcated area to warm ourselves up and also familiarize ourselves with our Bandit kayaks which were new to us till about 1115. We left for Coney Island after a short break of 15mins. We first paddled to a nearby floating fishing farm and next to the yellow buoy which marks the passage for sand barges moving in and out of the channel, reaching there at about 1150. As the reclamation works going on there has intensified much as compared to that we came across during the last round-Coney Island expedition we went on, the channel was busy. We made sure we were close to each other before we crossed the channel as part of our safety precautions. As soon as the sand barges passed, we crossed the channel, paddling at our fullest speed to cross the channel as fast as possible so as not to encounter any other sand barges moving through the channel.
We managed to reach the southern tip of Coney Island at about 1225 and beached up there. We ate our lunch that we packed into the kayak and also took advantage of this time to rest and enjoy the peaceful and quiet nature environment of Coney Island. After lunch, we decided to once again go on foot, walking along the beach shoreline, retracing the land route which we took during the last round-Coney Island expedition. As it was low tide, we could see bodies of dead jelly-fishes lying around on the beach. Eager to take a look at living jelly-fishes swimming in the sea, we quickly made our way back to where our kayaks were and launched out at about 1345 after a short break. We stayed close to the shore and were able to spot some jelly-fishes swimming around. We took caution when paddling around these waters with jelly-fishes swimming around, keeping our hands and arms above water level, so as to avoid being stung by them.
Due to time constraints, being afraid we will not be able to reach back PRSSC in time, we continued on our journey back. By 1415, we reached the northern tip of Coney Island. The waves there were really choppy and rough and we experienced some difficulty in maneuvering our way through. Fortunately, the waves were much calmer as we approached the southern tip of Coney Island and we were able to paddle through much faster. We reached the eastern tip of Coney Island at about 1515. There were major reclamation works going on there. We had to paddle our way narrowly in between two sand barges. As we paddled on, about to reach the yellow buoy, we encountered three sand barges moving out, one after the other. We had to wait for quite a long time for them to clear before we paddled on again at full speed to avoid encountering any other sand barges. We managed to reach back PRSSC at 1600 and decided to paddle around in the demarcated area, practicing our kayaking techniques which we have learnt during the kayaking courses at our own pace till 1630, before washing up all the equipment and returning them. At about 1715, we packed up and left PRSSC.
Wednesday, March 07, 2007
Physical Recreation Section: Canoeing
Kayaking Expedition @ PRSSC
Date: 10/3/07
Time: 0915 @ Pasir Ris MRT
Venue: PRSSC
People: Seth, Edmund, Jiawei and others if possible
Expedition:Round Coney trip of 8.5 km, from 1000-1700
Pls bring along your membership card, water bottle, PONCHO, 3 plastic bags and at least $20 for rental fees(Lunch can be bought at Pasir Ris MRT)
Date: 10/3/07
Time: 0915 @ Pasir Ris MRT
Venue: PRSSC
People: Seth, Edmund, Jiawei and others if possible
Expedition:Round Coney trip of 8.5 km, from 1000-1700
Pls bring along your membership card, water bottle, PONCHO, 3 plastic bags and at least $20 for rental fees(Lunch can be bought at Pasir Ris MRT)
Sunday, March 04, 2007
NYAA Entry - Physical Recreation - Entry 5 - Kayaking Expedition 5
ENTRY FOR PHYSICAL RECREATION
Kayak Expedition V
Participants
Jiawei, Edmund, Seth
Overview
- Kayak at CSSC
- Used a Dancer kayak (single)
- Paddled around Changi Seafront area
- Completed around 7 km of distance in 6 hours, from 1000-1600
Kayaking @ Changi
Date: 4/3/07
Hours Completed: 6 Hours (1000-1600)
For this time's kayaking expedition, we wanted to challenge oursleves by going to Changi SSC to paddle. In terms of difficulty, the waves here were much stronger and rough compared to other areas like Kallang due to its' relatively unsheltered position facing the ocean.
We decided to meet there directly at 0945 and brought our own lunches beforehand for the day's expedition. However, there was a shortage of dancers by the time we tried to rent them at around 1000 due to the many 2-star proficiencie courses held there today which required the use of dancers. Instead, we were told to wait till around 1100 for our boats to be available for rent.
Thus, we decided to utilise our time fully by first doing a formal briefing on our expedition today to prepare ourselves. As only 2 of us had been in the waters @ Changi, we shared our expieriences with one another and things to look out for at the club's briefing area till around 1045. Then, we did some warm-up exercises like stretching from 1045 to 1115 when our boats were finally ready for us.
By then, we got into the water by 1130 and started to paddle around in the Demarcated area to get the hang of the strong waves and currents there. We left the area at 1200 when it got too crowded with other kayakers and paddled across the channel towards Pulau Sekudu, passing the main sea channel for larger ships. It was an exciting expirience to be able to watch cargo ships pass by from such close proxymity, something that cannot be seen at other SSCs.
We reached P.Sekudu at around 1245 and paddled around an outcrop of rocks near the island, not wanting to go too near to shore after having been warned about the dangerous rocky coastline there. From there, we decided to paddle back towards CSSC by crossing the channel once again and making the 2km trip back there for lunch. We managed to reach the beach by 1345 and took our lunch break subsequently till around 1445.
Having recovered our energy, we got into our kayaks once more and paddled towards the Yacht Club this time. We had to cross a smaller channel meant for bum boats heading out to sea and continued making our way there. Unfortunately for us, storm clouds had gathered directly overhead when we had barely reached our destination and we decided to head back immediately for our own safety as we could see a heavy shower in the distance. We beached up at 1530 and waited for the rain to stop. As by 1550 the rain clouds still had not moved on, we decided to end our expedition there and then for today and went back to CSSC to wash up.
Kayak Expedition V
Participants
Jiawei, Edmund, Seth
Overview
- Kayak at CSSC
- Used a Dancer kayak (single)
- Paddled around Changi Seafront area
- Completed around 7 km of distance in 6 hours, from 1000-1600
Kayaking @ Changi
Date: 4/3/07
Hours Completed: 6 Hours (1000-1600)
For this time's kayaking expedition, we wanted to challenge oursleves by going to Changi SSC to paddle. In terms of difficulty, the waves here were much stronger and rough compared to other areas like Kallang due to its' relatively unsheltered position facing the ocean.
We decided to meet there directly at 0945 and brought our own lunches beforehand for the day's expedition. However, there was a shortage of dancers by the time we tried to rent them at around 1000 due to the many 2-star proficiencie courses held there today which required the use of dancers. Instead, we were told to wait till around 1100 for our boats to be available for rent.
Thus, we decided to utilise our time fully by first doing a formal briefing on our expedition today to prepare ourselves. As only 2 of us had been in the waters @ Changi, we shared our expieriences with one another and things to look out for at the club's briefing area till around 1045. Then, we did some warm-up exercises like stretching from 1045 to 1115 when our boats were finally ready for us.
By then, we got into the water by 1130 and started to paddle around in the Demarcated area to get the hang of the strong waves and currents there. We left the area at 1200 when it got too crowded with other kayakers and paddled across the channel towards Pulau Sekudu, passing the main sea channel for larger ships. It was an exciting expirience to be able to watch cargo ships pass by from such close proxymity, something that cannot be seen at other SSCs.
We reached P.Sekudu at around 1245 and paddled around an outcrop of rocks near the island, not wanting to go too near to shore after having been warned about the dangerous rocky coastline there. From there, we decided to paddle back towards CSSC by crossing the channel once again and making the 2km trip back there for lunch. We managed to reach the beach by 1345 and took our lunch break subsequently till around 1445.
Having recovered our energy, we got into our kayaks once more and paddled towards the Yacht Club this time. We had to cross a smaller channel meant for bum boats heading out to sea and continued making our way there. Unfortunately for us, storm clouds had gathered directly overhead when we had barely reached our destination and we decided to head back immediately for our own safety as we could see a heavy shower in the distance. We beached up at 1530 and waited for the rain to stop. As by 1550 the rain clouds still had not moved on, we decided to end our expedition there and then for today and went back to CSSC to wash up.
Saturday, March 03, 2007
NYAA Entry - Physical Recreation - Overview For February - Keep Fit
Participants: Thomas
Venue: VJC Gym
Dates: 2/02,6/02,9/02,13/02,20/02,23/02,27/02
No. of hours: 14 hours
Overview:
-Training up of standing broadjump and sit-ups
- Introduction to several machines in the gym
Carrying off from last month, I continued with my schedule of training my standing broadjump and sit-ups. In order to improve, I had to strengthen my calf and thigh muscles so as to enable myself to jump at a much further distance. Thus, I visited the gym on Fridays to utilize some of the machines in order to strengthen my lower limbs. Some of the machines include "Leg Curl", "Benchpress" and "Cycling Machine"
The "Cycling Machine" is almost similar to that of a bicycle, except that one would be cycling at a stationary position. One would be able to calculate the mileage covered and even measure one's pulse rate, thus being able to rate his/her performance on the machine. The "Leg Curl" is a machine that would train one's thigh muscles.He would have to place both knees under two round paddings which are connected to adjustable weights and lift them up using his thigh muscles. Finally, the "Benchpress" is a machine where one would have to lift weights on their shoulders. With all the pressure pressed on the shoulders, onw would have to lift his feet up, thus training up the calf muscles. I trained for my sit-ups through crunches and "Leg lifters". In "Leglifters", one would have to lift his leg in the air about 45 degrees to the ground and utilize his muscles around the abdomen area to keep his legs above the ground. Initially, my standing broadjump stands at 225cm while my sit-ups stand at 42 a min. At the end of the month, I had shown much improvement as my standing broadjump increased to 235cm while my sit-ups improved to 48 in 30secs.
Venue: VJC Gym
Dates: 2/02,6/02,9/02,13/02,20/02,23/02,27/02
No. of hours: 14 hours
Overview:
-Training up of standing broadjump and sit-ups
- Introduction to several machines in the gym
Carrying off from last month, I continued with my schedule of training my standing broadjump and sit-ups. In order to improve, I had to strengthen my calf and thigh muscles so as to enable myself to jump at a much further distance. Thus, I visited the gym on Fridays to utilize some of the machines in order to strengthen my lower limbs. Some of the machines include "Leg Curl", "Benchpress" and "Cycling Machine"
The "Cycling Machine" is almost similar to that of a bicycle, except that one would be cycling at a stationary position. One would be able to calculate the mileage covered and even measure one's pulse rate, thus being able to rate his/her performance on the machine. The "Leg Curl" is a machine that would train one's thigh muscles.He would have to place both knees under two round paddings which are connected to adjustable weights and lift them up using his thigh muscles. Finally, the "Benchpress" is a machine where one would have to lift weights on their shoulders. With all the pressure pressed on the shoulders, onw would have to lift his feet up, thus training up the calf muscles. I trained for my sit-ups through crunches and "Leg lifters". In "Leglifters", one would have to lift his leg in the air about 45 degrees to the ground and utilize his muscles around the abdomen area to keep his legs above the ground. Initially, my standing broadjump stands at 225cm while my sit-ups stand at 42 a min. At the end of the month, I had shown much improvement as my standing broadjump increased to 235cm while my sit-ups improved to 48 in 30secs.
Friday, March 02, 2007
Entry For Skills--Competitive Swimming--February 07
Participants: Thomas
Overview:
- 25m speed training
- 400m pulling strokes
Venue: Geylang East Swimming Complex (Mon)
Chinese Swimming Club (Wed)
Date: 4/2, 7/2, 11/2, 14/2, 21/2, 25/2, 28/2
Hours completed: 14 hrs
As a start for trainings, we did some stretching exercises beside the pool to prevent ourselves from getting any cramps in the water. Next, as a warm-up, we swam about 10 laps before beginning our training. After every swimmer has finished their usual routine, we begin to practice our pulling strokes for freestyle. The coach split up the practice into 4x100m. This form of training ensures that the swimmer is able to perfect his strokes and thus able to better his timing, which is important in competitive swimming. To execute this training, the swimmer would have to place a “pull buoy” or otherwise known as a float, between his legs. Next, he will kick off from the start and begin to “pull” through the water, purely using the arm strength as kicking would not be involved in this training. Thus, the swimmer would practice in 4 intervals with breaks within every 100m(2 laps) that the swimmer completes. Another form of training would be the 25m speed intervals. The coach split the team into groups of 4 with each swimmer numbered 1 to 4. Next, when a number is called out, the swimmer of that number from each group would step forward. We shall then perform a plunge into the water and swim to the best of our capabilities for 25m which is halfway through the pool. Upon crossing the 25m mark, we would slow down and swim at our own pace to the end of the pool. This would allow the swimmer to train up his starting plunge into the pool and his speed for short distances in the pool. This form of training would be crucial in preparation for events such as 50m freestyle as speed would be the key to victory.
Overview:
- 25m speed training
- 400m pulling strokes
Venue: Geylang East Swimming Complex (Mon)
Chinese Swimming Club (Wed)
Date: 4/2, 7/2, 11/2, 14/2, 21/2, 25/2, 28/2
Hours completed: 14 hrs
As a start for trainings, we did some stretching exercises beside the pool to prevent ourselves from getting any cramps in the water. Next, as a warm-up, we swam about 10 laps before beginning our training. After every swimmer has finished their usual routine, we begin to practice our pulling strokes for freestyle. The coach split up the practice into 4x100m. This form of training ensures that the swimmer is able to perfect his strokes and thus able to better his timing, which is important in competitive swimming. To execute this training, the swimmer would have to place a “pull buoy” or otherwise known as a float, between his legs. Next, he will kick off from the start and begin to “pull” through the water, purely using the arm strength as kicking would not be involved in this training. Thus, the swimmer would practice in 4 intervals with breaks within every 100m(2 laps) that the swimmer completes. Another form of training would be the 25m speed intervals. The coach split the team into groups of 4 with each swimmer numbered 1 to 4. Next, when a number is called out, the swimmer of that number from each group would step forward. We shall then perform a plunge into the water and swim to the best of our capabilities for 25m which is halfway through the pool. Upon crossing the 25m mark, we would slow down and swim at our own pace to the end of the pool. This would allow the swimmer to train up his starting plunge into the pool and his speed for short distances in the pool. This form of training would be crucial in preparation for events such as 50m freestyle as speed would be the key to victory.
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